Lake Tana Islands' History and Culture.

6/10/2019

Thirty-seven islands are scattered around the 3,000 square kilometer Lake Tana. One of the closest to Bahir Dar is Ras Abay, about a 5 kilometer/3 mile boat ride. We were told only monks or priests can live on the island, which is near the headwaters of the Blue Nile, which we also visited this day.
The island is home to the Debre Maryam. Locals claimed the monastery is 900 years old. Reliable sources say it is not possible to substantiate even a 13th century origin. The roof and solar panel are obvious modernizations. It is apparently one of the few islands and monasteries that women are allowed to visit.

We were not allowed to enter the monastery, but we could take pictures of the brightly colored paintings and remarkable tapestry.

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My career has focused on human rights. I managed an office providing legal aid to low-income people with civil legal problems. I teach classes at Missouri Western State University that focus on human rights and use applied learning approaches. I work internationally to bring this approach to law schools, their faculty and students.
I share my travels in hopes you will get a view of a part of the world I have found interesting, challenging or rewarding to work in. I request permission from subjects in photos whenever a person will be a central, identifiable part of the photo. Some of the best photos are never taken, or are just missed by me.

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Lake Tana Islands' History and Culture.

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